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9 of the best Lapland tours

Get the inside scoop on the best lapland holidays, from snowy trips to see santa to full-on adventures into the high arctic wilderness.

L apland is often billed as “once in a lifetime”, but once the Arctic bug bites, you’ll be back. The pull of the north is strongest in the dark, Narnia-like depths of winter, when the snow falls thick and fast on the remote fells and forests of Finland , Norway and Lapland . And boy is it cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -30C (making the Alps feel positively tropical by comparison).

You might have come all this way to whisper your Christmas wish list in Santa’s attentive ear, but the festive sparkle of big-hitting resorts such as Rovaniemi really is just the tip of the iceberg. Stray away from the crowds on snowshoes or cross-country skis through the silent white night as northern lights flash overhead, embrace the spirit of Sami reindeer herders with legends told around a hissing fire in a lavvu tent, or feel weightless as huskies pull you on a sleigh ride across the frozen tundra.

Read on for our pick of the holiday companies that wing you straight to the heart of Lapland’s winter action.

Main photo: People on a reindeer sleigh in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland (Getty Images)

1. Finnish Lapland in winter, Intrepid

Best for active couples Diving straight in at the Arctic deep end in Finnish Lapland, this winter classic gives you a whole gleeful week to play in the snow. You’ll kick off with a couple of culture-packed days in the capital Helsinki, before boarding the overnight Santa Claus Express to Rovaniemi, HQ of Father Christmas and his grotto-dwelling elves, in the Arctic Circle. From here, things take a dramatic turn for the wilder, as you’re whisked to a family-run guesthouse snuggled deep in remote forest — your base for the next few nights.

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The outdoor action centres around the 718m fell of Yllas, a wondrous place to ski on uncrowded slopes, with pristine and abundant powder. There are 1,001 ways to go full-on winter wonderland here and you’ll be trying out several: husky rides, northern lights gazing and hanging out with Sami reindeer herders at a 19th-century farm. There’s a free day in the mix, where you can perhaps slip on snowshoes, go ice fishing or sizzle in the sauna. The seven-night trip includes accommodation (twin share), breakfast, transport and most activities. Dates run from December to March.

Group size 1-12 Price ££

2. Lapland for adults, Untold Story

Best for luxe-loving grown-ups Who says Lapland holidays are only for kids? Upping the luxury ante, this bespoke tour of the Arctic is strictly for grown-ups, revealing a side to Finnish Lapland beyond the Santa hype. Breathing in the crystal-clear air as you make virgin tracks through ice-sculpted forests, standing in quiet wonder as the northern lights put on a private show and listening to the stories of Sami reindeer herders while huddled around an open fire in the middle of nowhere are moments you will be raving about long after you return.

Each day brings fresh adventures: reindeer and husky sleigh rides into the great white wilderness, say, or bombing across a frozen lake on a snowmobile. The final night is pure magic, as you trek into the frozen hush of the forest with Icelandic horses, dine at the Aurora Sky Restaurant and spend the night in a glass igloo on the slopes of a fell. A six-night sample itinerary includes accommodation, breakfast, private guide, activities and transport. Travel between November and March to see the region at its winter-wonderland best.

Group size private tour Price £££

untoldstorytravel.com

3. Cross-country skiing in Lapland, Exodus

Best for off-the-radar adventure Scientists have proven that the world’s cleanest air is found in the fells, high tundra and old-growth taiga forests of Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park, which unfurls in all its wild, peaceful glory close to the Norwegian border in western Finnish Lapland. In summer, Sami reindeer graze these wild lands, while in the blue-pink light of winter, the landscape is a readymade Christmas card, with trees bent heavy with snow and the northern lights blazing in night skies.

On this week-long Lapland trip, you can glide and skate along tracks at your own pace, with 190 miles of signposted trails to explore (25 miles of which are floodlit). You’ll often find yourself alone with nature, with little sign of civilisation, bar the odd kota hut where you can refuel over pulla (sticky cardamom bread) and hot blueberry juice before carving an onward path through the glistening snow. Slip on snowshoes to pad through forest and over fell and frozen lake in quiet exhilaration, returning to the village of Akaslompolo as the aurora lights up the horizon. Fancy a change? Visit the nearby Snow Village, sculpted afresh each winter, or take a cable car to float to the top of Yllas for arresting views and dinner at Finland’s highest restaurant. The eight-day tour including accommodation, use of cross-country ski trails, transfers and all breakfasts and evening meals; ski hire and tuition are available for an extra fee.

Group size 2-30 Price £

4. Lapland wilderness week, Exodus

Best for solitude seekers Shining a light on a spectacularly unsung, thrillingly forgotten corner of Swedish Lapland, this week-long escapade delivers the big wilderness it promises. At about 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you might expect biting cold, waist-deep snow, phenomenal displays of northern lights and off-the-charts scenery. And you’d be right. But what really grabs you is the silence. The kind of silence that only comes in a village such as Rajamaa (population: seven), plonked on a remote island in the Muonio River and gazing wistfully across the white beauty of Sweden and Finland. Hole up in a wooden cabin and let your hosts, the Malmstrom family, organise the rest.

This trip wholly embraces nature and Sami culture, with days spent dogsledding, snowshoeing, forest skiing, learning about reindeer-herding traditions, and slipping into dark nights warmed by saunas, campfires and stirring views of the aurora dancing high above. The holiday ends on an Arctic high, with a two-day forest skiing expedition over pine-stippled hill and frozen lake, and a night in a back-of-beyond logger’s cabin. As you ski back to Rajamaa, keeping an eye out for reindeer, moose and the tracks of wolverine and lynx, you might just want to press the pause button so the moment never ends. The six-night trip including accommodation with shared facilities, all meals, transport, tour leaders and equipment.

Group size 6-16 Price ££

5. A polar night, Off the Map

Best for would-be Arctic explorers Turning up the Arctic adventure several notches, this expedition-style trip to the great white wilderness of Svalbard is one you’ll never forget. At 78 degrees north, midway between Norway and the North Pole, this archipelago is a place of bone-chilling cold and soul-reviving beauty, with its dramatic icescapes, pearl-white mountains and wildlife (cue reindeer, snow-white Arctic foxes, walruses lolling on icebergs, whales and, of course, polar bears).

This trip has all the thrill of a mighty expedition, albeit with minimal effort. Kicking off with a night in Oslo, you’ll fly to Spitsbergen and spend a night at Funken Lodge on Longyearbyen, where you can jump on a snowcat for the first flickers of the aurora. A dog sled will then whisk you over the frozen tundra to the new Juva Lodge. With front-row views of ice and rock, this slickly Scandi cabin adds a blast of luxury to the Arctic experience, with comfortable beds, a fireplace and barrel sauna. It’s so remote and dark that the northern lights don’t dance here, they rave. Visit during the polar night in January, when the sun never rises, and you double your chances of seeing them. Spot wild reindeer as you fly across the snow on a husky-drawn sled back to Longyearbyen for a gourmet dinner — and perhaps another light show — before flying home. Departures are from January to May. Tours are generally four nights, including accommodation, private transfers, all activities and meals.

offthemap.travel

6. Senja — island auroras, Aurora Zone

Best for aurora hunters Everyone raves about the Lofoten Islands, but the dramatically mountainous, fjord-woven, surf-smashed island of Senja, just north, is just as ravishing yet far less busy. This trip is a rare and special one. You’ll stay in a tiny, lighthouse-topped hamlet right by the water’s edge, with optimum conditions for seeing the northern lights cascade in dark night skies. By day, a wildlife boat safari will take you out to spot seals, sea eagles and perhaps even a whale. And you’ll have plentiful chances to glimpse the northern lights — whether snowshoeing through the white wilderness or bubbling in a hot tub. Prices include four nights’ accommodation, meals, transfers, guided activities and cold-weather gear.

Group size private tour Price ££

theaurorazone.com

7. See the northern lights in Finland, Aurora Zone

Best for bucket-list Lapland The northern lights hold you in their thrall on this eight-night trip to Finnish Lapland. But a well-aimed snowball throw from Sweden, Harriniva, high above the Arctic Circle, is your woody base for the first four days. The family-run hotel is brilliantly placed for snow fun. Civilisation seems far away as you dogsled and snowmobile into the wilderness, or crunch through a frozen forest on snowshoes into Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. Stop for a lakeside sauna and — if you dare — a heart-stopping Finnish-style dip in an avanto (ice hole) in subzero temperatures. As darkness falls, all the focus is on the heavens and the northern lights.

The lights also shimmer on thenext leg of your trip at the northern lights Village in Levi. And as you’ll be staying in a glass-roofed Aurora Cabin open to the skies, you don’t even have to get out of bed to see them. By day you can hit the village’s ski and cross-country slopes, dash through snowy woods on a reindeer sleigh and discover more about Sami culture, while by night it’s back out into the darkness in search of the aurora’s wizard-wand flashes. Prices include flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities, cold-weather clothing and guides.

8. Christmas sparkle, Canterbury Travel

Best for families There’s nothing like a massive dump of snow, reindeer and a visit to see Santa in his twinkly, elf-filled grotto to put you in the festive spirit — and Canterbury Travel’s Lapland trips are a kid’s Christmas dream . This three-day break packs in a heck of a lot: reindeer sleigh rides, dogsledding and the chance to sit on Santa’s knee (gift included) in a private family session with the jolly red-robed dude. Children are in heaven at Elf School and visiting Santa’s magic post office (manned by more elves).

The backdrop of frozen fells and forests is pure winter wonderland stuff, and you’ll be staying in a log cabin or lodge in the rustic ski resort of Suomu or Ruka Valley near the Arctic Circle. But what sets this Lapland trip apart is ease of access, with regional departures from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Dublin. The price is for two nights including flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, activities and cold-weather clothing.

Group size private tour Price £

canterburytravel.com

9. Icehotel break, Discover the World

Best for ice magic Nothing says Lapland like snuggling under a reindeer hide on a bed of ice in a chamber of ethereal blue, with the northern lights dancing in the chill night skies outside. The Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi in Swedish Lapland was the first of its kind when it opened in 1989 and it hasn’t lost a jot of its frosty magic. Every year, some of the world’s top ice artists are enlisted to build it from scratch using ice hauled from the Torne River, unleashing their creativity in a fantasy of glittering ice sculptures and chandeliers.

The Icehotel is your bewitching base on this three-night Arctic adventure, where you’ll get to spend a night on ice (as well as two others in warmer digs). Hot lingonberry juice and a pre-breakfast sauna fire you up for a flurry of optional activities, from ice sculpting to husky rides, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. By night the aurora will shine if you’re lucky. Departures are from November to March and it’s well worth booking your activities in advance. The standard tour is for three nights, including accommodation, breakfast, morning sauna and cold-weather clothing.

discover-the-world.com

• Staying at the Icehotel: everything you need to know

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NORDIC ADVENTURES

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Small groups - big adventures, adventures in rovaniemi, need some inspiration.

Best of Lapland : Sauna, Ice Swimming, Dinner & Northern Lights*

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think about traditional Finnish adventure? Finnish sauna, Norther Lights, or traditional Lappish dinner in a cozy wooden cottage away from the city buzz? Correct! On this tour you will get all of the above and even a little more!

Aurora Arctic Ice Floating

We are about to introduce you to the most original, ultimately fun, and a fantastic way of experiencing the Northern lights. Take a dip in a frozen lake under the Northern lights!

Aurora Hunting by Private lake, in a cozy Lappish Tipi

If you want to go Northern Lights hunting but don't want to get round up with dozens of tourists, our private tipi experience is a perfect choice for you. That way everyone will have our full attention and a chance to get a personalized experience.

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Finnish lapland: the winter wonderland of dreams.

The chilling thrill of hiking the arctic circle... the soft brush of a breeze over dinner in the Lappish wilderness...the peaceful calm of fishing on a private arctic lake.... the stately majesty of the aurora borealis! People all across the world yearn for such experiences of the natural world. But herein Finland, these fantastical dreams are our reality every single day. We are NORDIC ADVENTURES and we want to share these experiences with the world. We plan and organize adventures across Finnish Lapland, the closest place on earth to a winter wonderland. Whether your idea of a vacation is cozying up on a hunt for the northern lights by reindeer sleigh, or floating carefree in the chill of an arctic lake, we have what you desire.

Nordic Adventures specializes in a wide selection of Lapland adventures, including a variety of hunts for the northern lights, a soul stirring hike to the Korouoma National Park, and tours of the lovely town of Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus himself!

It has been said, one should go where you feel most alive. We have found life and beauty here in Lapland. We truly love the breathtaking landscape, the friendly locals, and the profound energy of life to be found here. Let us take you on a journey through our Lapland. Let us show you the natural world bordering on the fantastic. Travel is one of thegreatest human freedoms ever.

What You Can Expect

Nordic Adventures exists to maximize your wildlife and wilderness experience in our beloved Lapland. We are not a tour operator. We are not a “big bus” operation. We will not take you around to see sunny beaches or ancient ruins. We are not destination generalists. Quite simply put, when it comes to adventures, Nordic Adventures is here to help.

Everyday, we endeavor to share our expertise and passion.

We make sure our customers get the best possible experience in Lapland. We focus on small group experiences that build memories beyond your wildest dreams. Our adventures provide a comfortable, safe, and truly enjoyable adventure for everyone. We will make your time in Lapland and Northern Finland more than just a simple vacation. Your adventure will be one to remember for a lifetime.

Adventures Catered to your desires

We seek to offer a wide range of adventures that will satisfy even the strongest wanderlust. We operate year round, and have plans ranging from just 50€ to 500€. No matter your seasonal preference, we have you covered. In the summer , we can take you on a wonderful hike on the Karhunjomalampi Trail. This route takes us through the lush, old-growth forest of Luosto. When blueberry season is in full swing (July - October), the trail blooms with scrumptious delights. Another relaxing summer adventure lies in the beautiful Ranua Wildlife Park . The park has one of the world’s best zoos, focusing on 50 different animal species native to Northern Finland, including the nation’s only polar bears.

"Why wait? Your Lappish adventure is out there just waiting for you to grab. Join us and experience Northern Finland to the absolute fullest!"

‍ Winter adventures , while a bit chilly, offer the best in winter fun. As one can imagine, the Aurora Borealis is one of the most beautiful natural sights the world has to offer. We offer a variety of adventures to hunt the sometimes elusive sight. Whether striking out in a reindeer pulled sleigh, or sequestering ourselves in a Lappish wooden hut on the shores of a private lake, your night will be memorable. We also offer several snowmobile safaris to take you far from civilization to see sights or even fish!

Feel free to contact us

From distinct tours to exciting safaris, you will be able to get the help you need to plan the adventure of a lifetime; an adventure that will change your life forever. Here at Nordic Adventures, we are focused entirely on your needs and desires. We are completely committed to doing whatever it takes to help transform your dream trip into a breathtaking reality. We are a team of experts specializing in something unique: providing our clients with one of a kind experience that will leave an impact on them like no other. Our team utilizes our background within the industry combined with the passion we have for bringing joy to our client’s lives to plan the ultimate trips.

Plan Your Adventure

No matter what you are looking for when it comes to your next holiday, our talented travel experts will be able to provide you with a depth of knowledge that will get you on track to planning the perfect excursion in no time. We tailor the experience around what you want to do so that all activities being planned are things that truly make you happy and satisfied. Our team will handle all the meticulous planning – right from discovering the absolute best hotels, activities, transportation methods, and other features of your trip that fit within your expectations.

Arctic animals tour in Rovaniemi

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How we can help:, budget friendly.

With our assistance, you will not only receive an in-depth plan for a tremendous trip that you will love but a plan for one that is well within the budget you have set at the beginning. We use our network of partners combined with our years of experience within the industry to provide you with an extensive trip layout that will allow you to partake in all of the exciting activities that you desire without having to worry about breaking the bank.

Tailored Experiences

Regardless of the specific kind of trip you are looking to go on — whether it be a corporate retreat, a luxury vacation for one, or even an exciting couple’s holiday — we can assist you in ensuring that it will be exactly how you imagined. We know that everyone has a different idea of what is the perfect trip which is why we are passionate about tailoring our services to design a distinct plan each and every time. No two of our trip plans is alike due to this dedication to customization.

Quality Services

Our team is able to plan exceptional trips due to the years of experience that we have developed as we’ve worked with our many clients. This background has provided us with the knowledge and resources we need to make the most out of every trip and make sure that we are doing everything within our power to create something that our client will genuinely love.

Full Length Assistance

From the time you first approach us with the idea for a trip all the way to the day on which you depart for your adventure, we will be there right by your side taking care of all of the little details that add to the overall experience. During each step of the process, our team of travel agents will be working hard to make sure that you are able to have the time of your life.

Social and Environmental Responsibility

While we work on planning outstanding trips for our clients, we make sure to design something that allows for a holiday that upholds the responsibility of a socially and environmentally mindful traveler. We are committed to using nature and culture as key features that can enhance the value of the trips we plan. Our team is constantly developing and making use of innovative solutions that are mindful of our environment, our community, and our world as a whole.

See what people are saying about us

Tripadvisor 539 reviews, great to do once..

The scenery was beautiful and Santa was great. Wish I would have gone at night rather than during the day because it is all lit up at night. Tour guide was great-helped us find a reindeer hide to purchase which was cheaper there than at our hotel... The reindeer sled ride was great.

Amazing Ice Floating experience

Excellent activity for small groups. Friendly driver collected us from hotel, with short drive to secluded cabin and pond. Floating, clear skies and the stars - unique & unforgettable experience. Highly recommended.

Authentic Finnish sauna and lunch!

My friend and I had the best experience with Tetiana! She picked us up from a central location in Rovaniemi and drove us to their private home just outside of Rovaniemi. Her knowledge of the Finnish culture was amazing and we learnt so much! The sauna was a traditional Finnish sauna (only 150 of these left in Finland!) and we had this to ourselves. Towels, slippers and tea were provided. We went ice swimming in their private late and as recommended made snow angels! Tetiana then made us an amazing traditional Finnish lunch which was the best meal we'd had in Finland throughout our travels. Tetiana was really accommodating and took photos for us and dropped us back at our accomodation. This was my favourite experience in Rovaniemi and would love to do it again! Thanks Tetiana.

Amazing Memories

We went on 2 tours: "Rovaniemi sightseeing and Santa Village" and "Finnish Home and Sauna". Everything was very organised and perfect. Pedro was our guide on both and we could not have been happier. Pedro was very knowledgeable and friendly. We are a family of 4, childrens age being 18 and 20 and he was able to engage everyone. Also Alex was very helpful during the decision/booking process. Thank you both for such amazing experiences and memories

Huskies and Reindeers for a Solo Traveler!

Alex did a fantastic job touring the group around Santa Claus village and the huskies and the reindeers. I am a solo traveler, and there were three other families. Alex helped entertain me and make sure I was taken care of, so I greatly appreciate him for enhancing my experience. Thank you! I would definitely book with Alex and this company again!

Sehr schöner Ausflug

Wir hatten einen sehr schönen Abend, auch wenn wir mit den Nordlichtern kein Glück hatten. Es gab warme Getränke für alle und auch Würstchen und Marshmellos zum grillen über dem Feuer. Alex war sehr nett und hat auch bei der Kameraeinstellung geholfen. Wir würden jederzeit wieder eine Tour mit Alex machen.

Do not miss this experience!!

We have just had the most enjoyable evening with Alex and his wife, Tanya - two of the nicest people in Finland!We went In the evening when it was dark and were greeted by the most beautiful scenery, with fairy lights everywhere. The sauna was beautiful and to cool off you can pop into the lake for a few seconds and then back into the sauna, it’s cold but very enjoyable and an Lapland experience that should not be missed! After the Sauna we had a lovely dinner and Tanya and Alex told us all about the traditions of saunas and other facts about the countryside. 10/10 we could not recommend this enough!!

Wonderful traditional sauna

It was the best choice we could do! Spending some days in Rovaniemi to go to Santa's village we decided to try the original sauna and the ice swimming. And we did it! Me., my wife and our girl 10 yr old, we all togheter had a very nice sauna in their old Cottage and we did togheter jumps in the lake three times! Guys were very kind. The dinner after we finished was pretty good, we had a very good salmon!

A great evening

We were picked up at 5 and got to go in the Sauna at 5:45, ate at 7:15 and drove back to Rovaniemi at around 8. The Sauna and the house were very lovely. We had the sauna all by ourselves and were left alone all the time. The Dinner was great and we learned a lot about Finnish Traditions. After Dinner we were shown the Kingdom of the Lord of the House, so the workshop. It was really great to learn so much about the life here, how it was traditional and how it is now. The few things that were not perfect: -We felt a bit rushed. 2 hours of sauna and a bit more time for the dinner would’ve been nice. - at Dinner we sat next to each other and just ahead of us, pointed directly at us, was a Surveilance Camera. This way we felt a little uncomfortable.

100% recommend!

The sauna was in an absolutely beautiful setting! Our hosts Alex and his wife ( I have forgotten her name 🙈) were so accommodating. She made a delicious meal ( salmon and vegetables and i usually hate fish too!) and gave us a really interesting talk on their lives in Lapland and the local culture and traditions. Really enjoyed our evening all round. And you must try the ice swim! It was invigorating!

Unexpected experience

It was my first time in Lapland, so I have had no any idea of what was I going to do there. Tons of offers from various tourism companies, plenty of possible trips and services to choose. However, my search ended up on the Private Lappish evening in the real wilderness (so atmospheric and exciting), offered by the Nordic Adventures travel company. The experience I have received was outstanding, sauna and traditional dinner were included, and I loved it. Never before I have been to the Finnish sauna, never before I have tried Lappish cousine, and I did not regret about choosing this opportunity at all! Whole service was smooth and pleasant, I give my five stars to this trip, but I wish I could leave 6-star feedback! I recommend it to everyone, who is willing to visit this magical place. Thanks to Alex, I had a great time!

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Your Lapland Travel Agency

Visit the Arctic Circle with Nordic Visitor for the chance to see the northern lights and enjoy magical winter landscapes. As a Lapland travel agency and tour operator, our knowledgeable experts take care of arranging your special trip for you, providing personal service and 24/7 support.

Top Lapland Travel Ideas

Discover the best way to explore and experience Lapland.

Cool Nights in Ice hotels

Stay the night in the famed SnowCastle and ICEHOTEL.

Feel the festive cheer when meeting Father Christmas.

Sleep Under The Stars

Look out for the aurora and stargaze from a glass igloo.

Chase the Northern Lights

Find and experience the aurora borealis.

Most Popular Lapland Tours

Travel to Lapland with these highly rated and best-selling tours. Created by our travel specialists with you in mind, these packages will give you an amazing Lapland experience.

Best of Rovaniemi - Classic

Santa claus village & dog sledding, best of lapland classic - rovaniemi, classic lapland adventure & icehotel, lapland adventure - aurora sky station, our lapland tour reviews.

Find out what our wonderful customers have experienced on their Lapland adventures.

Michael Australia

The tour activities on this trip were some of the best things we have ever done in our many years of international... read more

The tour activities on this trip were some of the best things we have ever done in our many years of international travel and everyone we were assisted by before and during our stay were very helpful, friendly and supportive so this added greatly to our overall fantastic experience.

We enjoyed all of the elements of our tour but in particular the safari by snowmobile tour which started at Nikkaluokta... read more

Depend on our Lapland travel experts to plan your next adventure. They’ve explored Lapland and its festive hidden gems, and know the best spots for northern lights sightings and outdoor activities. Enjoy your stay in the knowledge that all of your tour is booked and organised for you.

Lapland Facts

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor has been creating unforgettable travel experiences in Lapland since 2010. Our local experts have all toured around the region, and they will use their experience to create your ideal itinerary. Choose our Lapland packages and you’ll take home unforgettable memories.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence . We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Hassle-free experience

We take care of all the details and practicalities for you. You will receive a comprehensive itinerary with any additional extras you’ve requested, plus tried-and-tested accommodation. As well as this, one of our travel experts is always on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations.

Flexible tour options

Everyone’s travel wish list is different and we are here to find the right package for you. We’ll enhance your stay with upgrades in glass igloos and hotels made of ice (depending on destination). We will also organise extra nights and activities that you’re keen to do.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

Value for money

Nordic Visitor is a travel agency with a trusted network of hotels, local guides and suppliers, so when you book with us, you know that we’ve done the legwork and have extensively tested every aspect of a package. This also saves you time, meaning you can focus on enjoying your epic Lapland adventure.

Different Ways to Explore Lapland

Whatever you want to see and experience, we have the perfect Lapland package for you.

Visit Rovaniemi

Experience kiruna, honeymoon & romance, snowmobile adventures, journey by dogsled, new year trips, exploring lapland.

Soon the crunch of fresh snow will sound your every step, and the cold crisp air fill your lungs. Each morning, you’ll have a new adventure to remember. Get ready to…

• Meet Father Christmas and visit his festive Santa Claus Village
• Take a chair lift up to the Aurora Sky Station for a northern lights viewing
• Gaze upon the tranquil wilderness of Abisko National Park
• Mush across the vast Rovaniemi countryside on a husky sledding adventure
• Sleep under the stars in a cosy glass igloo , where you’ll get a clear view of the skies above
• Experience Lapland's peaceful forests on a guided  snowshoe excursion
• Learn about Sámi traditions and culture in the city of Kiruna
• Embark on a guided snowmobile excursion   through snow-blanketed countryside
• Visit a Sámi reindeer farm and enjoy a thrilling guided sleigh ride
• Stay in the dazzling ICEHOTEL , where everything from the bed to the bar is made of snow and ice

Lapland Travel Advice

Get ready for your brilliant trip to Lapland by exploring our handy travel guide.

What to pack for Lapland

The best advice we could give is to prepare for all types of weather

Climate and daylight

When does the sun set? What could the weather be like?

Northern Lights in Lapland

Lapland is an ideal place to see northern lights due to its location in the Arctic Circle

Accommodation in Lapland

Accommodation choices range from ice hotels to cabins, cottages and warm hotel rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lapland

You may want more information on visiting Lapland, so we’ve answered the most commonly asked questions for your peace of mind. If you want more information on Lapland then we suggest having a read of our Lapland travel guide . If you'd like to learn more about booking with us, check out our FAQs or contact our team of travel specialists.

1. Is Lapland a real country?

Lapland isn’t a country but a region of Northern Europe with over 170,000 inhabitants and 100,366 square kilometres of sparsely populated land. Rumoured to be the home of Santa Claus and his workshop, Lapland also has a reputation as a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the land for a lot of the year.

2. Is Lapland in Sweden or Finland?

Lapland is a region within the Arctic Circle that is spread across both Sweden and Finland. Parts of Lapland also cover Norway and the Kola Peninsula of Russia.

3. When should I visit Lapland?

A popular time to visit Lapland is during the winter months between December and March, as this is when you can experience thrilling excursions like snowmobiling, cross country skiing and reindeer sleigh rides. As well as this, it’s peak northern lights viewing season so you’ll have a good chance of seeing them “dancing”.

In our blog, we’ve written about visiting Lapland in the winter and chasing the northern lights .

4. Which airport do you fly to for Lapland?

Depending on where you’re visiting from and whether you decide to fly to Swedish Lapland or Finnish Lapland , the airport you fly into could be Kiruna, Rovaniemi or Kemi. If you’re not sure which would be best for you, get in touch with our team of travel consultants as they’ll be able to advise which airport you’ll need to travel to.

5. Do they speak English in Finland?

Yes – English is widely spoken in Finland. English is taught in schools so most people will know basic phrases. When you travel on our tours, this isn’t something you’ll have to worry about as your guides will be English speaking.

6. Is Lapland in the North Pole?

Lapland is far north and located in the Arctic Circle, but it is not in the North Pole. However, Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village , "the official North Pole residence" of Father Christmas.

7. How many days do you need in Lapland?

Depending on the attractions and activities you want to see and do, you can spend anywhere from a long weekend to a week in Lapland. However, for the sake of enjoyment, you won’t want to rush your visit. This is why all of our holidays are tried and tested by staff to ensure you get to experience the best of Lapland at a comfortable pace.

8. What country does Lapland belong to?

Lapland is a region that is spread across many countries, and so does not technically belong to any one of them. Finnish Lapland makes up for almost one third of Finland, and Swedish Lapland a quarter of Sweden, but the region also covers Norway and part of the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

9. Does Lapland have snow all year round?

It snows in Lapland for a lot of the year due to its subarctic climate and location within the Arctic Circle. This is why it’s a popular destination for winter trips and ski holidays. However, in the summer months, the snow and ice melts to reveal green forests and tranquil lakes and rivers.

For a detailed guide to Lapland’s climate, read our weather guide .

10. Can I choose the arrival date?

Yes, you can choose the best arrival dates to suit you, however we advise that you book as soon as possible as accommodation is limited and in-demand, especially in the ICEHOTEL and Arctic SnowHotel. All of our tours are available to book online, so secure your chosen dates as soon as you find them.

11. How much can I customise my tour?

All our packages are created to give you the best experience in Lapland, so whether you’re keen to explore the wilderness, add a meeting with Santa to your visit or stay in the ICEHOTEL, we have a tour to suit you.

However, if you want to do something extra, like spending additional days at either end of your journey or adding on another destination like Iceland or Norway , then all you have to do is ask.

Simply choose the Lapland package that best suits you and then contact our travel consultants about customising it. We’re happy to modify your itinerary where we can so you can tick off more attractions and areas on your travel wish list.

12. When should I book my flight tickets?

We’d advise that you look over flights for timings and dates, but hold off purchasing until you’ve booked your preferred tour. Once you’ve had a confirmation email from your personal travel consultant, you should then choose and pay for your flights. This is especially important as Lapland has the popular SnowCastle and ICEHOTEL to stay in and rooms can go quickly.

Our packages come with daily itineraries and all of your accommodation organised for you, so once you have all of the information you can make an informed choice on your flight times. If you have any questions, you can always contact your consultant for advice.

13. How should I dress for Lapland in winter?

We advise that you dress for the cold weather as you’ll be spending some of your tour in the outdoors. The snow-covered countryside can be uneven or slippery, so sensible footwear like walking shoes or boots is a must. Here are a few more of our suggestions:

• Thick woollen socks, ideally several pairs
• Thermal base layers
• Warm woollen sweater
• Jeans or other casual trousers
• Thin wool or fleece gloves (ideal as a base layer under snowmobile gloves)
• Warm gloves, scarf and cap
• Camera with extra batteries
• Small backpack/rucksack for day tours
• Heat pads for hands and feet  

For a more detailed list of what to bring, read our Lapland packing guide .

About Nordic Visitor Tours

Nordic Visitor is a Lapland tour operator and has been creating incredible travel experiences for customers in the region since 2010. Since then, we have grown across the Nordic region, while retaining our passionate belief that your trip should be memorable for all the right reasons. These include:

• Tailor-made itinerary: we personalise the itinerary with your dreams and needs in mind, and add on our recommended hidden gems, so you have the vacation of a lifetime.
• Quality checked accommodation: wherever you stay is guaranteed to be tried by our travel specialists and tested to our exacting standards, so whether it's a cosy glass igloo or charming hotel, you’re going to have a comfortable stay.
• Travel guide: add some secret sauce to your getaway with our insider travel tips and recommendations.
• 24/7 helpline: for your peace of mind, there’s always a travel expert on the other end of our 24/7 helpline.

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Our Swedish phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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Read about Lapland

Top 15 european christmas markets, glass igloos in finland: your guide, a few fun facts about swedish lapland, 7 reasons to visit lapland in winter.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

The smaller the group,

the bigger the experience!

We are the specialists of small-group tours in Rovaniemi

Responsible tourism in Rovaniemi

We refuse mass tourism. All our tours are limited to a maximum of 8 guests.

This allows us to have a closer relationship with our guests, better address their needs, and fully experience the silent beauties of Lapland nature.

We will always prefer quality over quantity. All our tours have been designed to offer services with high-quality standards that are respectful of our natural environment.

Top Winter Tours in Rovaniemi

Northern Lights Wilderness Tour with Camera

4 hours | 129€ / adult, september – april.

Our Northern Lights Wilderness Tour starts in Rovaniemi and takes you straight into the Taiga forest in the Arctic Circle, where you can watch the Northern Lights from beside a fire or while standing on a frozen lake!

Your guide will provide full explanations of the magical Northern Lights, nature and folklore, teach you about Lapland and show you the best ways to enjoy the delights of this beautiful wintery landscape.

Snowmobile Adventure in Lapland

4 hours | 165 € / adult, december – march.

This snowmobile journey is designed only for adults and takes us through the beautiful frozen forests of Lapland. On route we make several stops to enjoy the peaceful nature and landscapes.

Approximately halfway through your journey, your guide will serve warm drinks and share his knowledge. This tour is limited to a maximum of 8 people in one group to provide you with the best experience possible.

Visit an Authentic Reindeer Farm with Safari

3 hours | from 105€ / adult.

Visit one of the most traditional reindeer farms in Lapland, located just a few kilometres from Rovaniemi. This tour offers the best experience possible if you wish to meet the iconic animal of Lapland – the reindeer.

You will have a unique opportunity to learn from the herders about their work and explore the beautiful Arctic nature on a sleigh pulled by a reindeer through the magical Taiga forest. A true Lappish experience!

Snowshoeing and Ice Fishing Tour

4 hours | 115€ / adult.

This must-do trip combines two great local activities – snowshoeing through the Taiga forest and ice fishing on a frozen lake. This adventure will give you a great insight into Lapland’s nature and life in the Arctic!

Snowshoeing is a very beginner-friendly way to explore areas covered by deep snow and enables you to explore Lapland off the beaten path. You can easily create your path far away from other groups or tourists.

Korouoma Canyon Frozen Waterfalls

7 hours | 145€ / adult.

Explore the Korouoma Canyon and its majestic frozen waterfalls with this all-day guided excursion. Your guide will take you through the forest to the best spots where you can admire all the spectacular ice formations.

Our professional guides always try to adapt the tour to your needs and preferences. Walking through the Taiga forest in the nature reserve allows us to show you the uniqueness of nature beyond the Arctic Circle.

Northern Lights Hunting Adventure in Lapland

7 hours | 265€ / adult, september – march.

This tour is designed to maximise your chances to see the magical Northern Lights during your stay in Rovaniemi and experience a true night expedition with experienced Aurora guide.

If the forecasts are not promising around the Rovaniemi area, your guide may take you up to 400 kilometres away to get a better sky. During the tour you will get the chance to visit several different locations.

Magical Frozen Forests of Riisitunturi

9 hours | 245€ / adult, january – march.

Explore the beautiful landscapes of Riisitunturi National Park with a professional Arctic guide who will show you the most spectacular winter sceneries in Lapland and magical snowy trees.

Thick blankets of snow and ice turn spruce trees into big puffy marshmallows that attract tourists and photography enthusiasts. Your guide will teach you more about nature and wildlife beyond the Arctic Circle.

Ski Trekking Safari in Lapland

4 hours | 109€ / adult.

Your guide will take you away from Rovaniemi, straight into the Taiga forest, and you will explore breathtaking sceneries of Lapland using backcountry skis. Leave your track in the snow where no one has been before you!

Unlike alpine skiing and cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing allows you a more adventurous trip through hilly terrains and forests. This tour is a very beginner-friendly way to explore the wilderness.

Husky Farm Visit with 10 km Husky Safari

3 hours and 45 minutes | 195€ / adult.

Lead your own husky team like a real musher and explore the Arctic wilderness with your sleigh on private tracks. This tour guarantees the best husky experience in Rovaniemi with a 10-kilometre-long sleigh ride.

You will also get the chance to visit the lovely husky farm and learn more about the life of the mushers. We cooperate with a small husky kennel to provide our guests with the most authentic experience of Lapland!

Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour

4 hours | 185 € / adult.

Experience the magic of Arctic nature during the night time, following the trails far away from the city lights with just the snowmobiles headlights and moon illuminating the way ahead.

The snowmobile trails will lead us through snowy white Taiga forests. On route we will make several stops to enjoy the frozen Arctic nature, beautiful landscapes and hopefully observe the magical Northern Lights.

Night Snowshoeing Adventure under the Northern Lights

3 hours and 30 minutes | 105€ / adult.

Put on your snowshoes and get ready for an unforgettable night walk into the wilderness! This tour will allow you to head into the Arctic nature and discover the magical places of Lapland.

The tour is designed to get a good chance to observe the Northern Lights. Your guide will take you up a hill or through the forest, looking for nice viewpoints toward the north, where the Auroras originate from.

Ice Fishing Trip

3 hours | 89€ / adult.

This Ice Fishing trip will offer you a great chance to catch your breath in the silent immensity of Lapland nature while experiencing a traditional activity that many locals like to practice.

Your guide will drive you away from Rovaniemi to find the perfect peaceful place. Once you have found a promising spot, your guide will show you how to drill your hole in the ice and teach you the basic techniques of how to ice fish.

Top Summer Tours in Rovaniemi

Authentic Reindeer Farm Visit with Canoe Trip in the Nature

June – the middle of october.

Your guide will drive you to one of the most traditional reindeer farms in Lapland. The family of reindeer herders are based just outside of Rovaniemi on the shores of a peaceful lake.

Taking in the beautiful surroundings at the farm, you will learn about the reindeer from the herders. Afterwards, you will paddle around the lake and feel the complete harmony of Lapland nature surrounding you.

Canoeing under the Midnight Sun

3 hours | 109€ / adult, june – the beginning of august.

Paddle on the peaceful waters of Finnish Lapland and enjoy the beauty of the Midnight Sun! This guided activity will offer you a unique summer Arctic experience you will long remember!

The land, vegetation and animals finally have an opportunity to replenish their energy levels after long winter. Paddling across the lake, you will have the chance to be a part of this unique summer harmony.

Arctic Animals Immersion

2 days | from 439 € / adult, june – september.

Immerse yourself in the fabulous world of Arctic animals! This tour is the only one in Finnish Lapland that allows you to see and learn about the main animals that reside in the Arctic.

This 2-day experience combines a bear-watching safari with overnight in a wilderness hut, a reindeer experience in a traditional farm and an option to visit the Ranua Wildlife Park to see other Arctic animals.

All Day Canoe Adventure to Rovaniemi

6 hours | 150€ / adult.

Challenge yourself and embark on an all-day canoe adventure to Rovaniemi! Canoeing is the perfect and relaxing way to discover Lapland in summer while respecting untouched local nature.

You will get the chance to enjoy the peacefulness of nature, appreciate the Arctic fauna and flora from a different perspective, and end the day with a great feeling of achievement after this mini-adventure!

Wilderness Survival Tour

3 hours | from 79€ / adult, all year round.

Experience the Taiga forest and what the Lapland wilderness has the best to offer. You will feel the peace of Arctic nature, learn about your surroundings and some basic survival skills.

The tour operates all year round, with specific features attached to each season. In summer, the wild forest is full of delicious berries such as blueberries or lingonberries you can pick freely and taste!

Canoe Trip in Lapland

3 hours | 99€ / adult, the middle of may – september.

Discover the peaceful summer scenery of Lapland with this guided canoeing tour. The activity level is adapted to your skills to let you fully enjoy Arctic nature in the most relaxing way!

While paddling, you feel the peacefulness of Arctic nature and enjoy a completely different perspective of Lapland! Once back onshore, you will be welcomed by an open fire and typical Finnish campfire snacks.

Traditional Reindeer Farm Visit with Feeding the Reindeer

2 hours | 89€ / adult, may – october.

Come and meet the most iconic animal of Lapland! Your guide will drive you in a small group to one of the most traditional reindeer farms in Lapland providing the best experience possible.

Herders will show you around the reindeer farm, and you will have a chance to feed them their favourite food – lichen, which to reindeer is like chocolate! The visit will end with discussion around the fire.

Midnight Sun Delight

June – august.

Come and experience the beauty of the Midnight Sun with Wild About Lapland! The pure and untouched landscapes of the Arctic are highlighted by fantastic natural phenomena all year round.

Depending on your physical ability, your guide will take you into the surrounding nature enjoy the spectacular warm light of the never-setting sun, with typical Finnish barbecue snacks cooked on a campfire.

Trip to Ranua Wildlife Park

6 hours | 120€ / adult.

This guided trip to the Ranua Wildlife Park will give you great insight and the opportunity to see and learn about all the Arctic animals, from the Polar bear to wolves and wild boars.

Spacious enclosures for animals are located in the middle of the beautiful forest, so the tour is suitable for families with children. Don’t miss out the chance to meet the only Polar bear living in Finland!

We are Wild About Lapland – a lead company that provides Arctic tours and experiences to travellers and small groups in Rovaniemi , the capital town of Finnish Lapland . We are passionate about sharing our lifestyle, and that’s what we do best.

Our guides not only have years of experience , but they are passionate about sharing it with others. They also have a strong understanding of our impact on this wonderful world and love to share some ways of how we can help and be kinder to our environment.

All our Northern Lights tours and Arctic tours have been designed not only to provide you with a great Arctic experience but also to teach you more about Lapland and our surroundings.

“After serving in the Royal Marine Commando’s for 5 years and working as a professional Sailing & Outdoor Instructor, I was looking for a place to fulfil my vision and dreams. I found it here in the Finnish Lapland, where I can share the natural phenomena, opportunities, and beauty this amazing place has to offer.”

Theo Turner, founder of Wild About Lapland

Read more…

Our Philosophy

The smaller the group, the bigger the experience! 

Our goal in Wild About Lapland is to provide responsible small-group tours that allow all individuals to experience more than what they first came for.

We organise high-quality Rovaniemi excursions and safaris, accompanied by experienced and knowledgeable guides, to offer you an authentic experience of the Arctic!

Our business operations are in accordance with our sustainable tourism commitment. We refuse mass tourism. It allows us to have a closer relationship with our guests and experience the silence of real Lapland nature.

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The smaller the group, the bigger the experience!

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Lapland

Day trips from lapland.

• Lapland to Ranua
• Lapland to Posio
• Lapland to Rovaniemi
• Lapland to Luosto
• Lapland to Pelkosenniemi
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls Hiking Tour

2. Ranua Zoo tour, optional lunch

3. Tour to Ranua Zoo Wildlife Park Small Group Experience

4. Ranua Zoo Trip from Rovaniemi with lunch

5. Ranua Zoo Family Tour from Rovaniemi

6. Ice Waterfall Tour in Korouoma

7. Bus to Ranua Zoo from Rovaniemi

8. Guided Ranua Wildlife Park tour, Small group adventure, Lunch included

9. Hiking Trip to the Amethyst Mine

10. Private Korouoma Canyon Tour

11. Northern Lights Road Trip from Rovaniemi with Guaranteed Views

12. RANUA wildlife park

13. 5-Hour Tour to Ranua Zoo

14. Korouoma National Park Sightseeing, Walking and BBQ

15. Rovaniemi: Amethyst Mine Tour & Find Your Own Gemstone

16. City Tour And Santa Claus Village

17. Ranua Zoo Wild Park with Lunch

18. Full Day Lapland Tour, including Lunch and Dinner

19. The Ultimate Lappish Adventure, Full Day Tour, Meals Included

20. Riisitunturi National Park: Full-Day Wilderness Hike Tour & BBQ

21. Visit To Ranua Zoo

What travelers are saying.

• Korouoma Frozen Waterfalls Hiking Tour
• Riisitunturi wilderness adventure
• Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village Husky Reindeer Farm Arctic Museum
• Small-group Wintertime Amethyst Mine Visit from Rovaniemi
• Full day Tour to Amethyst Mine in Luosto in Summer
• Eanan Levi Tours
• Arctic Attitude
• Bearhill Husky
• Nordic Adventures
• Arctic GM Experiences OY
• Call of the Wilderness - Activities & Tours
• Nordic Odyssey
• Due North Safaris
• Arctic Timetravels

Experience the Magic of Lapland

Welcome to the magic of lapland.

Bring childhood dreams to life with a Christmas short break or delve into the Arctic with bespoke safaris and experiences.

Magic of Lapland is a family owned and run company focused on delivering the very best personal service from start to finish. We are immensely proud of our product, and work with only the most like-minded partners to ensure that our trips are truly unforgettable.

For December we have created a select number of special breaks for families that include the classic Arctic activities of husky safaris, snowmobile safaris and reindeer safaris and of course a private meeting with Santa. Each of our breaks has a different feel to suit all tastes from Lodge 67̊N Nordic, festive ambience to Torassieppi’s more wild and secluded charm and the luxury cabins’ cosy privacy.

Magic of Lapland also offers a range of breaks between December and April with adults in mind. Step into the wild and immerse yourself in the Arctic with longer safaris that take you off the beaten track, through national forests and over majestic fells.

All of our breaks can be found on our website but if you have any questions or looking for something more personal please do get in touch, and we will be delighted to help.

Our Destinations

Travel beyond the ordinary

Any airport

Lapland holidays as you always wished they could be

Your experience starts here.

When you travel to Lapland with Transun, you couldn’t be in more experienced hands. During our 40-year history, we’ve been designing and delivering exceptional holidays and day trips that have made memories to last for a lifetime. 

A longstanding specialist in Lapland holidays, we’re excited to journey deep inside the Arctic Circle and share some captivating breaks along the celebrated Northern Lights Route. From snowmobiling across the frozen tundra to mushing huskies through snow-capped forests; from gazing into the night skies at the Northern Lights, to visiting Father Christmas in his homeland, we have a Lapland holiday that will captivate you as much as it will inspire you.

But not any old Lapland holiday will do: we only operate in ‘True Lapland’, an area of unspoiled beauty and intrigue, far from the touristy, mass-market resorts. 

For us, travelling beyond the ordinary is a lifestyle. We’ve traversed unknown destinations, trialled the holidays that we offer and have stayed in the hotels that feature in our tours, creating a wealth of experiences, stories and knowledge that we use to craft the perfect winter getaway. Our team of experienced and passionate travel professionals are here to help on every step of the journey, and our team in resort are ready and waiting to welcome you on your next adventure.

We’re proud of the range of holidays that we offer and are pleased to have received many accolades over the years, and none more so than the British Travel Awards, which are voted for by those who have travelled with us.

We're bonded with ABTA and licensed with ATOL, so you can book your next adventure in complete confidence.

Travel With Confidence

Information on Travelling to Lapland

Snowmobile Voyager

New for 2024! Our refreshed Snowmobile Voyager holiday takes you over the borders of Finland, Sweden and Norway in just 30 seconds!

Information about Transun, our holidays, and ATOL protection.

Favourite Tours

Discover europe's last unspoiled wilderness, northern lights, finnish lapland - swedish lapland.

Search for the spectacular Northern Lights in Lapland and enjoy a host of winter activities

3 or 4 nights from £949 per adult

Aurora Hunter

Search for the fabled Aurora Borealis on this week-long break deep inside the Arctic Circle

7 nights from £1439 per adult

Winter Wonderland

Finnish lapland.

Experience all the magic of Lapland in a single day and return home in time for supper!

Daybreak from £599 per adult

Festive Lights

Swedish lapland.

Combine nature’s most extraordinary Northern Lights show with the jollity of the festive period

3 or 4 nights from £1059 per adult

A short break in the very far north of Finnish Lapland for those who love snowmobiling. Journey...

3 or 4 nights from £1239 per adult

Snow is Falling

Visit Santa in his secret log cabin in the forest on this pre-Christmas short holiday

2, 3 or 4 nights from £1099 per adult

Dashing Through the Snow

A Lapland holiday in Kilpisjarvi, including snowmobiling, husky sledding, and a meeting with Santa...

3 or 4 nights from £1299 per adult

Santa's On His Way

Search for Santa in his magical homeland on our Lapland short break

3 or 4 nights from £1199 per adult

Out of this world experiences

Discover a land of myth & legend.

• The Reindeer of Lapland

There’s more to Lapland than riding snowmobiles and hunting the Northern Lights. Reindeer are the undisputed icon of Lapland. From Father Christmas’ companions to the Sámi people’s livelihood, they are woven into the culture and way of life...

• See the Northern Lights

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Northern Lights are a stunning display of swirling, other-worldly lights. It’s no surprise seeing this spectacle features high on many travellers’ wish-lists: the incredible hues of blues and greens dancing...

• Visit Santa in Lapland

Make your children’s winter wonderland dreams a reality: enjoy a private family meeting with Father Christmas on your Lapland holiday. World-famous for being home to the festive icon and his gaggle of mischievous elves, Lapland will offer a festive holiday unlike...

• Ski and Snowshoe

When visitors think of a holiday in Lapland, images of Father Christmas, husky-sledding and Northern Lights spring to mind. This region was made for cross-county skiing and snowshoeing too, however. The snow is pristine, you’ll find fewer crowds than mainland...

• Glass Cabins

What a view! Lie back in the comfortable bed of your glass cabin and gaze up into the stars of infinite space. Maybe the evening skies will be blessed by the appearance of the fabled Aurora Borealis? This experience combines two of Lapland’s most iconic highlights:...

• Real Snow Igloos

Ditch the modern ice hotels and glass-roofed igloos for a more traditional way to sleep in the snow. Cosy, snug and unforgettable, spending the night in an igloo is a must for your Lapland holiday. Quite literally one of Lapland’s coolest places to stay, these...

• Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is an unmissable experience when visiting the Lappish wilderness on holiday, Europe’s last wilderness. This intensely beautiful landscape of frozen lakes and snow-bound forests feels like it was made for exploring by snowmobile. Developed in the 1930s,...

• Husky Sledding

Before snowmobiles, huskies provided a fast, reliable way to travel vast distances and transport goods. They delivered an important line of communication and essential supply chain during the First World War. Today, dogsledding is a huge attraction for visitors and...

Why Transun?

With over forty years' experience - you're in good hands, regional flights.

Transun are proud to offer the widest selection of departure airports from the UK to Lapland - more than any other tour operator.

Hand-picked locations

We will transport you deep within the Arctic Circle, further north than over-crowded and commercialised resorts to the magic of True Lapland.

Knowledgeable team

Our dedicated team is on hand to use their first-hand experience to help you select an Arctic holiday to suit your needs and requirements.

40 years' experience

As pioneers for travel to Lapland with more than three decades of experience behind your Arctic adventure, we offer a truly memorable experience.

• View collection
• Request this brochure
• Northern Lights 3 or 4 nights from £949
• Festive Lights 3 or 4 nights from £1059
• Aurora Hunter 7 nights from £1439
• Snowmobile Voyager 3 or 4 nights from £1239
• Santa's On His Way 3 or 4 nights from £1199
• Winter Wonderland Daybreak from £599
• Sleigh Bells Ringing 3 or 4 nights from £1399
• Snow is Falling 2, 3 or 4 nights from £1099
• Dashing Through the Snow 3 or 4 nights from £1299
• View all experiences

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Finnish Lapland

From the northern lights to the legendary sauna culture, this arctic destination has it all. Here's what you won't want to miss.

Milamai / Getty Images

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is the place to go to check more than a few once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list — like seeing the northern lights and experiencing the midnight sun. The arctic destination has stunning nighttime skies, wide-open landscapes, and air so fresh it can make you happier. Here’s how to plan a trip to Finnish Lapland that you’ll never forget. 

When to Go to Finnish Lapland

Here’s the good news about Lapland: It’s always beautiful out — well, depending on how you define “beautiful.” The region's peak travel season falls between December and February thanks to a natural phenomenon we’ll get to in a moment. During this period, the region’s average temperature ranges from 3 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can get down to as low as minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit with added wind chill. 

By contrast, temperatures in the summer can be much milder, usually ranging from 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a prime time to visit the area for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures.

How to See the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland

Many visitors travel to Finnish Lapland to take in a few breathtaking natural occurrences — including the aurora borealis, or northern lights. You can see this phenomenon any time between August and April, though it occurs more frequently around the equinoxes in late September and late March. Visit then and look to the sky on clear nights for a chance to witness this incredible celestial light show.

Those looking for a more curated experience can ask their hotel for recommendations, or they can book a guided trip like a  three-hour aurora borealis picnic  in Rovaniemi, which includes a short hike to an outpost with warm drinks and food. You can also take  a snowmobile tour or, the most adventurous of all, an aurora ice floating experience in Rovaniemi . It's just as it sounds — guests don dry suits and set out on a frozen lake to lie back and blissfully gaze up into the night sky.

How to See the Midnight Sun in Finnish Lapland 

Giles Clarke / Getty Images

If you’re not much of a night owl, that’s okay because Finnish Lapland offers another spectacular show: the midnight sun. From late May until early August, the tilt of the Earth means the sky never gets dark. Make the most of the near-constant daylight by taking a hike, going fishing, or even playing a round of golf when you'd normally be asleep. 

What Else to Do in Finnish Lapland

Andrey-Kobylko / Getty Images

Go for a hike.

Finnish Lapland is chock full of  stellar hiking trails  fit for all levels. The Arctic Circle and Inari hiking areas offer everything from one-hour hikes to all-day wilderness adventures, as well as restrooms and visitor centers. 

Hit the sauna.

Sauna culture has long been an integral part of Finnish life , and there’s no better spot to experience it than in  Tampere , the sauna capital of the world. Come for the public spas, but stay for the arts, culture, and attractions like the Tampere Market Hall, the largest indoor market in Scandinavia. 

Paddle your way through the region.

Explore Finnish Lapland from a different perspective by taking to its rivers for a canoeing adventure. During the warmer months, you can take in the amazing views as you meander along calming waterways. Try this six-hour canoe trip  down the River Kapsajoki, which includes a campfire lunch and opportunities for fishing. 

Visit Santa Claus.

Fun fact: Santa lives in Finland. And you can visit him any time of year at the  Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Kris Kringle and his elves open their famous home and workshop all 365 days of the year. Meet the man himself, cross the Arctic Circle (which passes through the theme park), embark on a snowmobile safari adventure in the Lapland wilderness, and dine in a restaurant made of snow while you're there.

Where to Stay in Finnish Lapland 

Lingxiao Xie / Getty Images

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

At the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, guests can enjoy a host of creature comforts in a nature-centric setting. Every room comes with fur throws and floor-to-ceiling windows, while some even have soaking tubs, fireplaces, and decks from which to take in the surrounding forest. Book the chic two-bedroom Arctic GlassHouse  to enjoy all the bells and whistles.

Seaside Glass Villas

Need more of a view? Spend a few nights at  Seaside Glass Villas , a collection of box-shaped bungalows in the waterfront town of Kemi. Each one has a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the Bothnian Bay, as well as a glass roof through which you can enjoy incredible views of the northern lights while lying in bed.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

You might recognize Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort's gorgeous glass-domed igloos from your Instagram feed, but even the best photos can't capture the magic of actually staying in one. Book the kelo-glass igloo to combine the privacy of a log chalet with the wow factor of the northern lights dancing over your bed.

Those seeking to stay in the lap of luxury need look no further than  Octola , an exclusive five-star hideaway with just 12 rooms and two chalets. Guests can book a single room or buy out the entire space if they want to bring along family and friends. 

What to Pack 

Packing for a summer trip to Finnish Lapland is relatively easy. Just bring whatever you normally would for any other summer getaway — shorts, T-shirts, a bathing suit, pants, and a light jacket for cooler nights. 

If you plan to visit in winter, you'll need to bust out the big checked bag and pack it with cozy thermal underwear, insulated snow boots with a grip, an insulated jacket, waterproof or snowproof pants , a few wool sweaters, warm gloves and socks, a hat, a scarf, and some instant heat packs to throw in your gloves and boots. Don’t forget your camera, and make sure to pack extra batteries — they will drain quickly in the cold weather. 

How to Get There 

Despite being located in Finland's far north, getting to Lapland isn’t nearly as difficult as you may think. First, fly into Helsinki, then, depending on your final destination, continue to either Kemi or Rovaniemi by regional flight. Finnair and Norwegian Air each offer a 90-minute nonstop to Rovaniemi, or you can board a one-stop Finnair flight to Kemi via Kokkola-Jakobstad Airport in Kronoby.

If you've got the time, a scenic seven-hour train ride will get you from Helsinki to Kemi (the ride to Rovaniemi takes 8.5 hours). You can also travel between Rovaniemi and Kemi by train for a 90-minute intra-Lapland adventure.

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8 of the best Lapland holidays, tours and all-inclusive packages for a magical winter break

Whether meeting santa, taking part in exhilarating snow sports or chasing the northern lights, there’s a lapland holiday for everyone, article bookmarked.

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As the summer holidays approach and temperatures rise, those who aren’t jet-setting for sandy toes and tan lines should look ahead to winter trips and the enchanting spell of the Northern Lights .

If a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to Lapland is at the top of your Christmas list, now’s the time to book – the sell-out spot is at its most popular during the December festivities as children flock to meet Santa and grown-ups soak up midday sauna sessions.

From Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village to the warm aura of Kiruna, winter sunlight hours may be short during the polar night with temperatures often dipping below -9C, but Lapland days remain packed with unique activities and novel stays in ice palaces, glass igloos and tree houses.

With so many all-inclusive stays, snow sports tours and holiday options in the Santa-centric land, here’s  The Independent’s  pick of packages to transport you to the magic of the Arctic Circle this Christmas season.

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• Beauty advent calendars 2021: Our guide to this year’s top treats
• 13 best tech gifts to spoil a gadget geek this Christmas
• 10 best luxury Christmas crackers for dressing up your dining table
• How to have the perfect family holiday in Lapland
• Best kids club resorts in Europe 2023: Where to stay for family-friendly fun
• Sweden travel guide: Everything you need to know

Best for: Luxury breaks

Swedish lapland experience.

Lapland crosses the utmost northern borders of Finland , Norway and Sweden’s dense forests, but the rural Scandinavian landscape is not without its luxuries. Tailored tours, wood-fired hot tubs and private chefs bring home comforts to the wilderness for travellers willing to splash the cash stress-free on a Christmas fairytale holiday.

Off the Map Travel  provides a four-night Swedish Lapland Experience for a unique luxury stay in the heart of Arctic Sweden, including accommodation in the Icehotel and Treehotel, transfers, excursions and half-board meals. From £1,699pp guests can enjoy ice sculpting or husky sledging in Kiruna and Lulea, and spend the night in a cosy Aurora Hideaway – the perfect vantage point to see the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights while indulging in traditional Swedish dishes.

Best for: Northern Lights hunters

Arctic aurora activity holiday in finnish lapland.

Viewing the Northern Lights is one of the most popular adventures to top a travel bucket list – after all, the natural world puts on few more spectacular shows. Travellers can hunt the aurora in chilling temperatures from paths off the beaten track, in the sky on a hot air balloon ride or from the comfort of a glass igloo and a lucky few will witness the clear and colourful skies during their Arctic adventure.

Discover the romance of the aurora borealis with  Aurora Zone  on a four-night Arctic Activity Holiday in Inari, Finnish Lapland. Trip excursions such as a snowmobile safari, dog sledding and shoeshoeing fill days in the Sámi culture’s capital, with nights spent searching for the vibrant hues of the Northern Lights. The holiday package costs £2,025pp, including return flights from London , transfers, accommodation, meals, all activities and cold-weather clothing for the duration of your Lapland stay.

Best for: Christmas festivities

Santa’s magic.

Santa’s holiday home, Lapland, is where you’ll find the picture-perfect scenes of Christmas cards; reindeer, igloos and snow-dusted trees. Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi even boasts Santa Claus’ Post Office, a husky park and boutiques ideal for last-minute present shopping right in the heart of the Arctic Circle.

Santa Claus Trips ’ Santa’s Magic holiday in the vibrant ski town of Saariselkä, priced from £1,239 per adult, includes return flights from the UK, half-board meals and accommodation in Tunturi Hotel for two nights. Festive highlights such as a private meeting with Santa, elves, igloos and reindeer sleigh rides dot the snowy break’s itinerary as the magic of Christmas takes hold of little and big ones alike.

Best for: Snowsports

Icehotel break.

What could be more exhilarating than taking to the ice by day and sleeping on it by night? Lapland’s snowsports offerings, from skiing to ice skating and (slightly tamer) sleigh riding behind reindeer or huskies, come in abundance so the winter fun doesn’t have to stop at Santa and accommodation doesn’t need to be boring.

Discover the World  offers a three-night stay at the  Icehotel  in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, from £733pp. Here, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and husky sledging excursions meet evenings spent eating and drinking in the Icebar, inside the hotel crafted each year using ice from the frozen River Torne. Return flights from London to Kiruna start from £204 in December.

Best for: Family fun

Santa breaks in yllas.

Santa trips, skiing holidays and nights spent seeking the bewitching Northern Lights are the perfect ingredients for a family winter holiday regardless of the Arctic temperatures. Kids of all ages will love the unique magic of the dynamic landscape and its snow-based activities, and visits to Father Christmas are bound to be a hit – even with the non-believers – so long as you wrap up warm and let imaginations run wild.

Inghams  provides a four-night holiday for two adults and two children from £1,059pp when travelling in November. The package includes return flights from Manchester and a half-board stay at the family-friendly Akäs (Snow Elf) Hotel & Alp Apartments. The hub of the Santa programme in Ylläs, all excursions depart from the hotel and the colourful village centre is just a five-minute walk away.

Best for: All-inclusive packages

New year lapland arctic adventure.

Over the Christmas holidays demand for Lapland holidays is high, and it gets the price tag to match. While it’s unlikely to find a truly budget break to the snowy scenery in winter, all-inclusive packages often slash the cost of high-paced activity days, and are well worth it to see the magic and charm of the secluded spot for yourself.

Canterbury Holidays  New Year Lapland Arctic Adventure is the ultimate seven-day activity holiday to Lapland. From £1,740pp, extend the magic of Christmas and experience the winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland – return flights, excursions, B&B accommodation and a New Year’s Eve dinner and party are all included in the stay. Visits to Europe’s only amethyst mine and a “white hike” through the frozen forests and fells also fill days of post-Christmas bliss on this NYE adventure.

Best for: Off-grid explorers

Finnish lapland in winter.

Enjoying the solitude of nature while coping with extreme temperatures is all part of being a Finn. To live like the locals, going off-grid on a Lapland holiday on snowshoe walks to remote farms and fighting the cold with a glass of salmari gets you even closer to the heart of the Sami culture.

Intrepid Travel  offers a journey through Finnish Lapland in winter from £2,745pp, so strap on your hiking boots and crunch through snow-dusted woodlands as you travel from Helsinki to Rovaniemi across the pristine landscape. Dog sledging, reindeer herding and the famous “Santa Claus Express” overnight train are all highlights. Breakfasts, transport, accommodation and activities are included in the cost of this eight-day holiday. 

Best for: Romantic retreats

Finnish lapland and the arctic circle.

There’s a romance to the campfire cabins and snow-topped saunas of Lapland. Think charming traditions, pastel-hued skies and authentic natural landscapes in secluded woodlands – best enjoyed while riding a snowmobile for two, or a sligh pulled by reindeer – as a backdrop to long weekends for lovebirds.

Untold Story Travel  offers six-night private tours of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic Circle. Accommodation options include wilderness cabins and Arctic treehouses, and the holiday is tailored to every couple’s requirements. Potential holiday highlights include a personal host to monitor Northern Lights activity, enchanting reindeer sleigh rides and snowmobiling across a frozen lake before spending your final night in a private glass igloo.

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Lapland Holidays

Why Lapland

What better way to enjoy the magic of Christmas and make your child’s dreams come true than a trip to see  Santa on a Lapland holiday?  Think crisp white snow, reindeers, huskies and elves – it’s a place where childhood dreams can become reality. Father Christmas has put some time aside in his busy December schedule to welcome you into his hideaway Lapland home, with the elves on hand to join in the fun – all you need to do is wrap up warm and bring your Christmas list! Experience the thrill of Husky Sledding, Tobogganing or take a ride through the stunning landscape on a magical Reindeer Sleigh. And at the end of the day look out for nature’s very own light show, the Aurora Borealis, Northern Lights. We can offer Lapland Day Trips throughout the month of December - flying out early morning and returning late at night. Extend your stay on a 2, 3 or 4 night break staying in 3 or 4 star hotels in various resorts, including Saariselka and Rovaniemi, both a short transfer from the airport.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable last minute Lapland break or a luxury Lapland holiday , you’ll find your perfect snowy escape with Hays Travel. To book yours, chat to one of our travel experts today. Alternatively, take a look at some of our other winter holidays . 

Want to know more about our Lapland holidays? Browse our FAQs below to learn more about Santa’s magical home. 

You’ll find Lapland in the northernmost region of Finland, bordering Norway and Sweden. The Arctic Circle crosses into Lapland too, which is why Lapland holidays are known for their magical wintery settings. 

The flight time from the UK to Lapland is approximately 3 hours. Its short flight time is why Lapland day trips and mini breaks are so popular!

Yes! A chance to spot the Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, is just one of the things that make Lapland holidays so special. 

A day trip to Lapland for a family of 3 usually costs around £1660. At Hays Travel, we offer low deposits and pay monthly options on all our Lapland holidays to help make your trip as affordable as possible. 

To book your Lapland holiday, chat to a member of Hays Travel now.

APRIL SALE Extended:   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Lapland Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Lapland by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Lapland will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

22 Lapland small group tours with 20 reviews

• Northern Lights

Midnight Sun – 7 Days in Lapland

Our experience with Nordic Unique was great. As a little older group some tours did not appeal to us and they were great about rearranging the itinerary. There could have been a little more communication prior to the trip. I would also suggest some kayaks at the lake. Our guide Matthias (Niales) was awesome!! He was patient, kind, knowledgeable and a great cook.

Finnish Lapland in Winter

Great trip. Unique experiences

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Finland Adventure to Lapland

Tolle und eindrückliche Reise

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Finland - Northern Light Adventure

Aurora Borealis in Inari, Lapland in Finland - 4 days

Tailor-Made Finland Northern Lights Private Tour

Finland – Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo

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Gold Prospecting Hike In Finnish Lapland

Arctic Ski Expedition

Premium Aurora Safari & Icehotel Trip

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Cross-Country Skiing in Lapland

A Winter Dream on New Year's Eve in Swedish Lapland

Northern Lights & wildlife in Swedish Lapland, 7 nights

By far the best holiday i have experienced. Wild Sweden delivered a seamless and really enjoyable tour from Lulea to Jokkmokk and back. All the gourmet meals, quality accommodation and unique experiences in the stunning North will stay with me as fantastic memories. From the initial sign-up through to the highly professional guides, Wild Sweden made navigating the Arctic terrain effortless and comfortable with advice and custom equipment for first timers like myself. I truly appreciated the relaxed environment on tour with our group - and the adventures we went on. Seeing the bright Northern Lights in clear view was the icing on the cake. I would change nothing and definitely recommend this trip as the best way to adventure in the North of Sweden. Thanks for everything - from Jonathon.

Tailor-Made Aurora Safari & Icehotel Trip

Tailor-Made Private Finland Tour to Fairy Tale Lapland

Reviews of small group tours to lapland.

Excellent trip in the wonderful outdoors!

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Myself and my friend want to go on a short santa lapland break, I've looked at transsun, canterbury travels etc. I dont know who will be the best one, could someone please give me some advice.

I would look into Transsun if i was you, specially their trips to the Davvi Lodge...not very encouraging reviews of those trips/place.

dont you mean that you would NOT look at Transun Routa

their reputation is dire

Inghams do santa short break holidays, I have friends who went to Yllas and really rated it.

Poe no as i said i would look into them, as in do some research/investigation on them exactly because of their far from stellar reputation and reviews.

but just to spell it out - transun have rubbish reviews

Has anyone ever been with a company called Go Lapland? I have been a couple of times now with transun and cosmos. I would like to go with a smaller operator that offers small groups and a very personal service. I want the santa thing for my last little one but a non commercial set up if that makes sense. Any ideas.

if it's go2lapland then they are part of barhead travel which have a good rep from what I recall but if you are looking for more personal service with smaller groups then look at activities abroad, espirt etc

i thought esprit was a larger company a bit like cosmos with larger groups. More of your first choice, cosmos etc. I will have a little look. Do they have a good reputation.

We went with Ingham and they were great. We have been twice with them

And are travelling with them again this year. X

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Choose your Santa’s Lapland experience

Both of our lapland holiday packages include a reindeer ride, sledging with huskies, tobogganing, lots of snowy activities like snow hockey and mini skidoos, and a private visit with santa., on our santa’s aurora package, your activity centre is exclusive to our santa’s aurora families and you’ll have an additional wilderness dinner, a visit to santa's elves workshop, a longer husky ride and a snowmobile safari..

• SANTA s MAGIC Your choice of four hotels with everything you've dreamed of for a magical Lapland adventure. Explore Santa’s Magic

• Believe your eyes, this is an experience your family will cherish forever. From £1169 per adult See what's included
• SANTA S AURORA Enjoy the ultimate Christmas in Lapland with a little extra Aurora magic sprinkled on top. Explore Santa's Aurora

• The ultimate Lapland experience for your family, even the elves get jealous. From £1549 per adult See what’s included

Get Inspired

Santa and his elves can't wait for your arrival, but before your trip begins, get inspired! Unlock the magic of Lapland with our Santa's Chronicles, learn how to wrap up warm in Lapland or call our Christmas helpers to book your magical getaway.

Don't Miss Out On This Limited-Time Magic

Tick-tock. The magic's on the clock. We're giving the gift of incredible savings with HALF PRICE child places on our  Santa’s Magic package for selected dates in November and December 2024 & 2025.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical

Flights, transfers, half-board accommodation, a fun-filled activity trip and snowsuits are all included.

A remote spot in the far north of Finland, 200km above the Arctic Circle among the snowy trees of Saariselkä.

If you are yet to book, and you find your Santa’s Lapland holiday cheaper elsewhere, we’ll price match it.

Everything about the holiday was magical. Amazing staff, hotel, organisation of the search for Santa day, the support of the company in the lead up to the trip. Can't recommend this trip and company enough. SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - CHRISTOPHER December 2022

Amazing holiday. Reps were amazing. Programme was well thought through. I loved it as much as the kids. STAR ARCTIC HOTEL - REBECCA January 2022

A once in lifetime trip, magical and full of fun for children and adults. Accomodation practical with everything you needed, staff attentive and organised and the food suited everyone's needs. The adventures were unforgettable and breathtaking! SANTA'S HOTEL TUNTURI - MARY December 2022

We had a truly magical experience enhanced by the enthusiasm of the staff. Our boys 6 and 7 were taken aback by the whole experience and Santa was the icing on the cake. A family trip and memories that we will treasure forever! SANTA'S HOLIDAY CLUB - ALISON December 2021

Fancy more snow fun?

Keep the magic going with an extra day for adventure - the choice is yours. sledding on the toboggan run, the thrill of husky sledding, cruising through the snow by snowmobile or hunting for the northern lights..

• An extra day for family time in the snow. Husky and reindeer rides, thrilling snowmobiles, a spot of skiing, or a hunt for the Northern Lights. The choice is yours. Optional Adventures

• Explore a little more, make magical memories in this other-worldly wilderness. You're spoilt for choice. See for yourself

WAYS TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY TO LAPLAND

It's time to book your trip to Lapland and we can't wait for your arrival. Whether you're booking online or giving our Christmas helpers a call on 01483 791 945 , we're just as excited as you are for your magical journey to begin!

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Guide on How to Travel from Helsinki to Lapland

A re you heading to Finland and wondering what the best way to travel from Helsinki to Lapland? Did you know that for most visitors to Finland, these are the two most visited areas? It makes sense as most visitors fly into Helsinki, spend a day or two and then head off into the vast wilderness of Finnish Lapland.

In this guide I will help you in your travel research by providing up to date information on how to travel to/from these regions of Finland, whether its by plane, train or even car. 

One of the biggest factors in your decision about how to get from Helsinki to Lapland will be the amount of time you have and your budget. Below I go through the practical details on the three main transport options, providing the positives and negatives for each so you can make the most informed decision. Let get into it!

What are the airports in Lapland?

As I mentioned there are currently 5 airports in Lapland. Below are the airports with the main locations serviced from them.

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Rovaniemi is the third busiest airport in Finland and is the most popular of the ones in Lapland. Located in the south of Lapland, just near the Arctic Circle, this airport is seen as the gateway to Santa Claus Village. Given the towns popularity, there are several flights a day between Helsinki and Rovaniemi. This is one of the few that also is international airport accepting flights from several major European cities. 

In general, Rovaniemi can feel a quite commercial and crowded, especially during the peak winter season. This airport also serves as the hub for Pyhä  and  Salla which are popular for their natural beauty and skiing, both downhill and cross country. 

Ivalo Airport (IVL)

Two popular destinations with skiers and snowboarders include Inari and Saariselka , which are both serviced by the Ivalo airport. The airport is within 30 minutes of both destinations and is the northernmost airport in Finland.

Kittilä Airport (KTT)

Kittila is one of the main airports in the northernmost region of Finland, and the only other accepting international flights. This airport services the popular ski area of Levi. Levi is a popular spot for families during the festive season, but is smaller and quieter than Rovaniemi. Additionally, the popular Snow Village can be found here.

Our favorite destination serviced by this airport is Muonio which is a laid back destination offering all the popular touristy activities found in Rovaniemi but without the crowds and is excellent for spotting the Northern Lights. 

Kemi Airport (KEM)

Kemi-Tornio Airport is located on the coast of the Bay of Bothnia, serving travelers heading to Southern Lapland. Kemi has slowly become more popular in the tourist circuits for their magnificent Snow Castle that is built there every winter and for the famous Sampo icebreaker cruise. 

Kuusamo Airport (KAO)

Lastly, the Kuusamo Airport serves one of Finland’s major holiday destinations Kuusamo, attracting almost a million tourists annually. Many of these arrive for skiing at nearby ski resorts, especially Ruka Ski Resort , one of the largest in Finland.

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A Finnish Lapland Winter Escape

Flying from Helsinki to Lapland

Domestic flights from the capital Helsinki to Lapland airports are operated by Finnair. While the flights can be reasonably priced if booked well in advance, domestic flights on Finnair do impose an extra fee for checked luggage. Additionally, the new Finnair carry on limits are quite strict with a maximum of 8 kg for all carry on items combined. This means, that for most travelers,  it makes most sense to upgrade to the main fare price which includes both carry on and checked baggage. Once you upgrade your flight, a round-trip flight will cost a minimum of €200.  Note, if you are looking for cheap flights, sign up for Finnair’s email blast and keep an eye out for flash sales.

That said, this is still the quickest way to travel between Helsinki and Lapland. It can be cost effective if you are a solo traveler and/or traveling with extremely light luggage. However, it can be get expensive if you need to check a bag or are traveling in high season with several people

Traveling by Train from Helsinki to Lapland

Next we will move on to traveling by train from Helsinki to Lapland , which is the second most popular option.

I personally find travelling by train in Finland to be a wonderful experience and the most convenient way to get around the country. The trains are clean and reasonably reliable depending on weather conditions of course. Additionally, it is better for the environment and saves you money on accommodation if you can take an overnight train to travel while you sleep. All long-distance trains in Finland are operated by VR Train. 

Day vs. Night Trains

The most popular train that visitors take to Lapland from Helsinki is the Santa Claus Express train which ends in Rovaniemi. It leaves close to midnight and arrives around 11 a.m. the next morning. If you are traveling with children, this train is great as the sleeper cabins are essentially sold as a two person cabin. Prices for an upstairs private compartment sleeper cabin which includes a private toilet run around 300 Euro one way. The train also has a restaurant car for snacks and meals while on the train. Note, Rovaniemi train tickets for the sleeper cars can sell out quickly, so book well in advance to ensure you have a cabin.

Another popular route is to Kolari, which is the northernmost railway station in Finland. Travel here from Helsinki takes approximately 14 hours. Boarding is around 7:45 p.m. in Helsinki with a 10 a.m. arrival.  Even though it sounds like a long trip, it goes by quite quickly once you get settled in your sleeper cabin, grab some food from the restaurant car and then hit the sack. 

If you are unable to secure a sleeper cabin, you can consider a day train. With free Wifi, power sockets and the ability to walk around, an 8 hour train would actually go quite quickly if you can keep yourself occupied! These tickets run around €75 per ticket during high season. 

Take Your Car on the Train

For readers who live in Europe or have a rental car already booked, they can consider putting the vehicle on the train as well! These trains depart from Pasila Station and can be extremely handy if you have brought your car over from mainland Europe, but don’t want to drive all the way to Lapland. This is not cheap, but is a dobale option to ensure you have more access to explore around Lapland.

Train Stations in Lapland

There are many train stations in Lapland that I can’t list them all, but the main ending/starting point for the major lines include Kolari as the furthest north, Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi in the east. 

Kolari is in the far north of Finland, northeast of Rovaniemi, and very close to the Swedish border. This station is perfect for those traveling to Levi or Muonio. You can reserve a shared taxi or bus from the station to both locations. 

Kemijärvi is located east of Rovaniemi and from here you can easily access Salla and Pyhä.

Overall, I personally feel that if you are traveling with others or even on your own that taking an overnight train to or from Lapland is a great option. Train travel is scenic, cost effective if you have a family or a lot of luggage and you also have the option of taking a vehicle. The negatives are that it does take a long time and there are times that the trains leave late at night making it awkward for families with smaller children. 

Driving from Helsinki to Lapland by Car

For many travelers further afield, this would mean renting a car and needing to return it either in Lapland or back to Helsinki which can be quite an expense.

I am not sure I would recommend this option for many, but if you have your car and you are confident on driving on the right hand side of the road, in snow or inclimate weather, you will most likely be fine.

But you must be aware that this journey is at least 800 kilometers and can take around 10 hours. That said, the journey up to Rovaniemi is along one main road and the views will be stunning for much of the way.

In general, I’d only advise driving to Lapland from Helsinki if you’re touring elsewhere in Finland, have your own vehicle and have at least a couple of weeks here to make it worthwhile and cost-effective.

Important Information for Your Finland Trip

When is the best time to visit finland.

In reality, you can visit Finland at any time of the year as there are a multitude of activities to suit any weather condition. That said, in my opinion, the best time to visit Finland is definitely during the winter months between December and February. This is when you will see the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes and you have a great chance to see the aurora borealis. Note, it is also the coldest time of the year, so you will need to prepare for that!

What is the best way to get to Finland?

Finnair offers direct flights to Helsinki Airport from all over the world, including from here in Los Angeles. The international flights are on newer Airbus A350 planes which have ample legroom, flight cameras and more. Subscribe to their newsletter for deals and special offers if this is a trip you are looking to plan far in advance. 

If you are in mainland Europe, you can also make your way overland to Tallinn and take the Viking Express over to Helsinki for a very affordable rate. Note, this is also a great day trip idea from Helsinki.

Where do you recommend to stay in Helsinki?

There are so many amazing options to stay in Helsinki. I think where you stay is dependent on what you want out of your visit. During my stay in the city I was leaving on an early morning ferry and arriving late at night from the airport so I chose the Noli Studio Apartments which were cheap, clean and convenient to everywhere I wanted to go. There are several of them located throughout the city, so pay attention to the neighborhood that you wish to be in! 

If you want a little more luxury and don’t mind being a little further out, consider the Clarion Hotel which is a favorite for repeat visitors to the city. 

What are the best things to do in Finland?

There are so many amazing things to do in Finland that I can’t list them all here. But a start would be to check out our top experiences in Lapland that you can find all over the region. Winter activities are some of the best on offer here in Finland.

What do I need to pack for Finland?

Layers is the short answer. The longer answer will depend on what time of year you are visiting. Assuming you visit during the high season of winter, you will need to pack a lot of warm breathable layers such as merino wool . Overall, I would say to focus on layers, good boots that have room for several pairs of socks, good gloves or mittens and a warm hat.

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Column: Here’s what Exxon’s CEO gets wrong about the climate crisis

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Oil and gas conglomerate Exxon Mobil could be a key player in global efforts to combat the climate crisis — if only governments would remove burdensome regulations and stop wasting money on inefficient clean energy incentives.

Sound contradictory? It is.

Nevertheless, that was the message shared by Exxon Chief Executive Darren Woods on Monday in Beverly Hills.

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As I watched a livestream of the Milken Institute Global Conference , I was frustrated but not surprised to hear Woods imply that emerging technologies such as carbon capture and green hydrogen — on which Exxon and other oil giants are spending a tiny fraction of their cash — will be the main drivers of climate progress. We need those technologies for sure. But solar panels, wind turbines and batteries are cheap enough and reliable enough to get us most of the way to 100% clean energy, scientists say.

Woods, however, said hardly anything about solar and wind power, instead calling on the federal government to ease permitting regulations to make it easier for companies to build large-scale carbon capture and green hydrogen infrastructure.

“Permitting becomes significant bottleneck to advancing those projects,” Woods said.

He’s not entirely wrong. But he’s not telling the whole story.

I also shook my head in amazement as Woods suggested that a major barrier to slashing carbon pollution is that the world lacks “a system for accounting for carbon.” Until we can better calculate the costs and benefits of reducing emissions across different sectors of the economy, he said, we’ll continue to spend too much money on some climate programs and not enough money on others — wasting taxpayer dollars in some places while missing low-hanging fruit in others.

As an example, he implied that President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act allocates too much money for electric vehicle subsidies — despite the fact that cars, trucks and other forms of transportation are America’s largest source of climate pollution .

“You want to make sure you have the tools available to prioritize the most effective steps first,” Woods said.

“That’s the point of a carbon accounting system,” he added.

Let’s set aside the fact that Exxon is a member of several trade groups that opposed Senate Bill 253 — the landmark bill approved by California lawmakers last year requiring major companies such as Exxon to publicly disclose their carbon emissions.

The deeper problem with Woods’ argument is that “prioritizing the most effective steps first” is a recipe for disaster.

Earth just experienced its 11th-straight record hot month . Heat waves, wildfires, droughts, floods — all of them are deadlier and more destructive then they were a few years ago. We shouldn’t ignore energy costs and smart use of taxpayer dollars, but in the absence of a livable climate, nothing else matters. With scientists telling us we need to cut carbon pollution more than 40% in the next six years, we don’t have time to waste prioritizing the most effective steps. We need to move on all fronts, ASAP.

And how did we get to this critical point in human history?

In large part because Exxon and other fossil fuel profiteers waged phenomenally successful, decades-long political campaigns of climate change denial and delay. It’s a horrific story that my L.A. Times colleague Susanne Rust helped expose in 2015.

In some ways, it’s a story that continues today.

Just last week, House Democrats released internal documents produced by a long-running investigation into the oil industry. In one document, an Exxon official expresses the view that the goals of the 2015 Paris climate accord are not realistic — despite the company publicly endorsing the accord, as Emily Atkin and Arielle Samuelson report in their Heated newsletter.

Another document shows the same Exxon official recommending to a fossil fuel industry group that it delete all references to the Paris accord, writing that those references “could create a potential commitment to advocate on the Paris Agreement goals.”

So yeah, I’m skeptical when Woods starts off by saying, “Our view is there’s a need to do more math in this space.”

Fortunately, Woods shared the stage with Biden’s clean energy advisor, John Podesta.

Dealing with climate change, Podesta said, is “not an accounting problem.”

“We’re seeing people drowning in Brazil from flash flooding. Extreme weather across the United States. This is going to get worse and worse as the temperature heats up,” Podesta said. “So the question is, what’s the speed and scale with which we’re moving to try to move from fossil fuels, which have powered our economy for decades, and we’re not getting rid of tomorrow?”

“Companies like Darren’s can be part of the solution,” he added. “My beef with him is I just think he’s not going fast enough.”

Podesta also highlighted the rapid pace of solar energy growth, and called out Exxon for not investing more in renewables.

“I want them to spend more,” he said.

By the end of the Milken Institute discussion, it was clear why Exxon hasn’t spent more on climate-friendly power.

Oil and gas continue to be the company’s most reliable profit centers — a fact made clear by Exxon’s $60-billion acquisition of Texas-based oil and gas producer Pioneer Natural Resources, which was cleared by federal officials last week. The purchase will greatly expand Exxon’s ability to drill for fossil fuels in the Permian Basin region of eastern New Mexico and western Texas.

Woods made the case that the purchase will be good not only for “the economy” (which ignores the fact that the climate crisis is terrible for the economy) and for “consumers” (which ignores the fact that the climate crisis is terrible for human beings).

He also claimed Exxon’s fracking operations “will be good for the environment as well.” That head-scratching statement is based on the company’s plans to power its facilities with clean energy and limit heat-trapping methane releases — useful but still totally inadequate steps that ignore all the pollution unleashed when the oil being extracted is later burned in cars and trucks.

The best I can say for Woods is that he wasn’t shy about acknowledging who pays his salary.

“As a business, we’ve got to understand ... what are the returns for our shareholders,” he said.

Love modern capitalism or hate it, it’s what we’ve got . Averting climate catastrophe will necessitate leveraging the system we’ve got — pushing politicians to regulate the hell out of companies such as Exxon, but also holding our noses and collaborating with at least some of those companies, as technology and economics and politics require, to claw our way across the finish line.

On that note, here’s what’s happening around the West:

TOP STORIES

Heeding the calls of Indigenous leaders and conservationists, President Biden expanded two national monuments in the Golden State. Using his powers under the Antiquities Act, Biden expanded Southern California’s San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by more than 100,000 acres and protected a Northern California region rich in biodiversity and sacred to the Patwin people by adding it to Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, as my L.A. Times colleague Alex Wigglesworth reports. Let’s not forget, though, that establishing protections is just the first step. High Country News’ Anna V. Smith explored what it’s been like for federal agencies and Native American tribes working to manage and protect Utah’s Bears Ears National Monument.

How is long-buried DDT making its way from the ocean floor off the coast of Los Angeles into the food web, endangering all of us who enjoy eating fish? A new study — one of many sparked by my L.A. Times colleague Rosanna Xia’s groundbreaking DDT reporting — finally sheds some light on the matter. It seems the toxic chemical is coming into contact with zooplankton that get eaten by deep-sea fish, then making its way up the food chain from there, Rosanna writes. In other Pacific Ocean news, The Times’ Hayley Smith and Sean Greene reported on majestic blue whales in Southern California’s Santa Barbara Channel, and the deafeningly loud cargo ships going in and out of the L.A. and Long Beach ports that can make life hell for the mammals.

Why is it so difficult to deliver water from the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta to California farms and cities without killing endangered fish? The Times’ Ian James toured the pumping plant at the heart of the problem, writing that the risk for fish “is not just that they may be drawn into pump machinery and killed, but also that they will first be pulled into waters where they are easy prey.” Ian also wrote about the Klamath River dam removals along the California-Oregon border, reporting that Iron Gate Dam — the tallest of the four, at 173 feet — is finally coming down . “There’s just been so much that’s been put into this day coming, so many people contributing to it,” a ceremonial leader of the Karuk tribe said.

THE ENERGY TRANSITION

Tesla is opening some of its Supercharger stations to some non-Tesla electric vehicle drivers — but not all stations and not all EV drivers, at least not yet. That much became clear after Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office posted a video that was interpreted by many viewers as implying Tesla was moving more quickly to open up its chargers — which was not quite right , as The Times’ Russ Mitchell made clear. If you’re looking for another alternative to gasoline, The Times’ Rachel Uranga has a first look at what a high-speed train from Southern California to Las Vegas might look like. And if you’re just frustrated by high gas prices, California’s oil refinery watchdog is getting close to calling out the industry for price gouging , per the San Diego Union-Tribune’s Rob Nikolewski.

The Biden administration released congressionally mandated rules to speed up the federal approval process for energy projects — and it sounds like they found a way to make the new rules as beneficial for renewable energy and as onerous for fossil fuels as possible. Details here from the New York Times’ Coral Davenport. The administration is also moving forward with plans for floating wind energy off the coast of Oregon, per Oregon Public Broadcasting’s Monica Samayoa. Offshore wind took a step forward in Southern California last week too, as noted in Politico’s California Climate newsletter (scroll down).

It was the best of times for Berkshire Hathaway Energy. Then, suddenly, it was the worst of times — and Warren Buffett admits he didn’t see it coming. Just two years ago, the so-called Oracle of Omaha called Berkshire’s energy business one of his company’s four “giants.” But now, Reuters’ Jonathan Stempel writes , “he fears its business model may be broken,” torpedoed by wildfire liabilities that could reach tens of billions of dollars as global warming fuels ever-more-destructive blazes, some of which have been sparked by Berkshire-owned utility lines. Despite the climate threat to Berkshire’s business model, Buffett and most of his fellow shareholders continue to oppose carbon disclosure resolutions. In other utility company news, Pacific Gas & Electric is seeking approval to get into business with investment firm KKR , the New York Times’ Ivan Penn reports. KKR owns a big chunk of San Diego-based Sempra Energy’s infrastructure assets, including a liquefied natural gas export plant being built in Texas.

POLITICAL CLIMATE

A judge is leaning toward dismissing a climate lawsuit brought by 18 California children against the federal government, seeking faster action to phase out fossil fuels. The U.S. Department of Justice asked a federal judge to dismiss the case — and although he hasn’t ruled yet, the judge said he was inclined to side with the government , describing climate as a challenge to be dealt with by Congress and the president, my L.A. Times colleague Tony Briscoe reports. In Oregon, meanwhile, a federal appeals court rejected a similar youth climate lawsuit at the Biden administration’s urging, per the Associated Press’ Gene Johnson.

The likely Republican U.S. Senate candidate in Nevada has made comments supporting nuclear waste storage at Yucca Mountain, calling the project an economic winner — a surprising position in a swing state where statewide candidates typically oppose Yucca Mountain. Will those comments come back to haunt Sam Brown in November, and possibly help keep the Senate in Democratic hands? Here’s the story from The Times’ Seema Mehta. Long term, if we want to keep getting roughly one-fifth of our nation’s power from nuclear reactors (which would be super helpful for climate, as I’ve written previously ), we’ll need somewhere to store all the spent nuclear fuel, which can remain radioactive for tens of thousands of years.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill last year protecting Joshua trees from housing, solar farms and other development. Now a desert lawmaker wants to reverse some of those protections — and his legislation is moving forward in Sacramento, clearing its first committee last month, as Ryan Sabalow reports for CalMatters. Such is the constant push and pull between conservation and development, even in California. Elsewhere in the ever-changing desert, The Times’ Alex Wigglesworth penned a fascinating story on Danielle Wall, a “tattooed, cutoff-clad 29-year-old” who “has become the Joshua Tree area’s premier rattlesnake wrangler.”

AROUND THE WEST

Would California Forever be a modern-day sustainable city or an environmental train wreck? It looks like voters in Northern California’s Solano County will get a chance to decide, now that the project’s billionaire backers have seemingly gathered enough signatures to put a zoning code measure on the November ballot. Details here from The Times’ Connor Sheets. In other California Forever news, Connor and Karen Garcia write that the city of Vacaville’s vice mayor “is in the hot seat after it was revealed that he had earlier sought to associate his home loan business with the developer’s campaign” for the sprawling housing project.

There’s plenty of snow in the mountains feeding the Colorado River this year. But with parched soils and high temperatures fueled by climate change, scientists tell KUNC’s Alex Hager that we should prepare for less water in the river than we would have gotten in the past. In better news, the Colorado Sun’s Shannon Mullane reports that tribes in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming now have a permanent seat at the table in Colorado River conversations. And in Arizona, the Colorado River Indian Tribes — which hold the state’s largest and most senior Colorado River water rights — now have a lot more control over how they use their water, under a new agreement with the Biden administration. Details here from Inside Climate News’ Noel Lyn Smith.

Remember the 2023 “snow deluge” that rescued California from drought? Don’t expect another one, a new study concludes. “I would not be surprised if 2023 was the coldest, snowiest winter for the rest of my own lifetime in California,” one scientist told the Associated Press’ Brittany Peterson and Seth Borenstein. If you find that kind of news hard to process, maybe check out this beautiful story by the Arizona Republic’s Joan Meiners on local groups grappling with climate anxiety. “Communities everywhere are finding new ways to both celebrate and grieve life on Earth as a necessary step in saving what’s left,” she writes.

ONE MORE THING

If you love board games, I’ve got a hot tip for you.

In a new version of Settlers of Catan — known as Catan: New Energies — you have to choose between fossil fuels and renewable power as you build out human civilization. If you cause too much pollution, catastrophes ensue , NPR’s Nathan Rott reports.

Board games, movies , TV shows , theme park attractions — the more climate-enriched entertainment, the better.

This column is the latest edition of Boiling Point, an email newsletter about climate change and the environment in California and the American West. You can sign up for Boiling Point here . And for more climate and environment news, follow @Sammy_Roth on X.

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Sammy Roth is the climate columnist for the Los Angeles Times. He writes the twice-weekly Boiling Point newsletter and focuses on clean energy solutions. He previously reported for the Desert Sun and USA Today, where he covered renewable energy and public lands. He grew up in Westwood and would very much like to see the Dodgers win the World Series again.

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